9 Ways to Close a Job Interview Successfully

Whether you feel your job interview has gone well or didn’t get the job, you must leave the interview on a positive note. Remember that many people leave an interview feeling like they’ve blown it, only to receive a phone call a few days later offering them the job. You can never be sure what the interviewer thinks of your interview performace, so it’s a good idea to take every opportunity to close a job interview successfully.

The end of the interview is what your interviewer will remember best, so make sure to leave on a strong note.  Here are some points to keep in mind for the close of your next interview:

1. Ask relevant, thoughtful questions.

The night before your job interview, prepare a few questions you can ask at the end—you will usually be given an opportunity. Choose to ask relevant and insightful questions where the answers aren’t found through their website or other print material about the company. If you do, they will know you haven’t done your homework. Ask questions that are relevant to the daily activities of the position. This will show your interest, capabilities, and motivation.

Perhaps you want to ask if there are any professional development opportunities you could take advantage of, showing that you are willing to put in extra time and effort to improve your skills and performance. Don’t discuss wages, benefits, or other compensation areas until you receive a job offer.

[tweetthis]9 interviewing tips to close the job interview successfully and land a job offer. [/tweetthis]

2.   Ask the interviewer if they require further information.

Offer the hiring manager the opportunity to ask any more lingering questions. This shows you know what you’re doing and are fully prepared for them and ensure that you leave the interview with your interviewers having all the information they need to make an informed decision. Find out if anything else is required before moving on to the next step, such as transcripts, a portfolio, background check, driver’s abstract, etc.

3.    Discover what the next step is.

Ask the interviewer what the next step is in the hiring process and when you should expect to receive a phone call. This gives you an excellent timeline to prepare and doesn’t leave you wondering when you might receive a call. Furthermore, this is a great way to show your enthusiasm for the position and desire to work at the company.

4.    Find out how you stand up against the competition.

There is no harm in finding out how many people you are up against.  Ask how many other people are interviewing for this same position. Inquire as to how well you have done. You may wish to word this as, “How do I look so far in comparison to the competition?” Ask the question once, and do not pressure the interviewer if they don’t want to discuss it. This tactic lets you know how you perform and whether or not you will advance. Plus, the interviewer will appreciate your frankness and openness. You can also learn from feedback and use that at your next interview.

5.    Restate your interest in the position.

There is nothing wrong with saying how much you want to work at this company. Don’t beat around the bush, and let the interviewer guess whether you want to work there. You’ll leave a good lasting impression by closing out your interview with enthusiasm and interest.

6.    Offer a firm handshake.

Smile, make eye contact, and firmly—but not too aggressively—grip your interviewer’s hand. If more than one interviewer is present, it’s best to shake everyone’s hand. This shows professionalism, etiquette, and potential for being an excellent example for your staff and a good team player. This is the correct way to end an interview, regardless of the position you are applying for.

7.    Say thank you.

Thank the interviewer(s) for the opportunity to convey your passion for your field and the specific position with the company. Remember, they didn’t have to offer you an interview, but they did. Let them know it is appreciated.

8.    Leave a business card.

This is a great way to give the interviewer easy access to your contact information. It is also a little and constant reminder of who you are. If the decision-maker looks at that card even once or twice, they will have a better chance of remembering you; thus ensuring that you stand out amongst the competition.

9.    Send a thank you letter.

No, this is not done while you are still in the interview, but it is a crucial step that follows. These documents are a polite way to thank you for the opportunity and pleasure of an interview. This is also an effective method to highlight your outstanding qualifications and passion for your field and convey your enthusiasm for working for that particular company.

Need additional help? Reach out to Candace to learn more!